Penny collecting is a fascinating hobby, and some coins are worth far more than their face value. Certain rare pennies have become highly valuable due to their low mintage, historical significance, and unique minting errors.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, knowing about these valuable pennies could lead to an exciting finding. Let’s take a closer look at five of the rarest and most valuable pennies in U.S. history.
Table of Contents
- 1 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Penny
- 2 1914-D Lincoln Penny
- 3 1922 No D Lincoln Penny
- 4 1955 Double Die Lincoln Penny
- 5 1969-S Double Die Lincoln Penny
- 6 Could You Have One of These Rare Pennies?
- 7 FAQs
1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Penny
The 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Penny is one of the most sought-after coins in numismatics.
Historical Background
This coin was minted in San Francisco to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth. It was designed by Victor David Brenner, whose initials “V.D.B.” appear on the reverse. However, controversy over the initials led to their removal shortly after production began, making this penny a rare collector’s item.
Key Features
- Mint Mark: S (San Francisco)
- Composition: 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc
- Design: Features Lincoln’s portrait on the obverse and two wheat stalks on the reverse
Value
With only 484,000 minted, this penny is highly valuable.
- Lower grades: $600 to $1,000
- Fine to extremely fine condition: $1,500 to $2,500
- Uncirculated specimens: $3,000 to $10,000 or more
How to Identify
- Look for the “S” mint mark under the date
- Check for “V.D.B.” initials at the bottom of the reverse
1914-D Lincoln Penny
The 1914-D Lincoln Penny is another key date coin that collectors actively seek.
Historical Background
Unlike error coins, this penny is valuable due to its low mintage. It was minted in Denver, and because few were saved in high grades, finding one in uncirculated condition is extremely rare.
Key Features
- Mint Mark: D (Denver)
- Composition: 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc
- Design: Similar to other early Lincoln pennies with wheat stalks on the reverse
Value
With only 1.1 million minted, this penny is hard to find, especially in good condition.
- Good condition: $200 to $400
- Fine to extremely fine condition: $1,000 to $2,000
- Uncirculated: $3,000 to $10,000+
How to Identify
- Look for the “D” mint mark below the date
- Be cautious of altered 1944-D pennies, which are sometimes modified to appear as 1914-D
1922 No D Lincoln Penny
The 1922 No D Lincoln Penny is one of the most famous error pennies in U.S. history.
Historical Background
All pennies in 1922 were minted in Denver and were supposed to have a “D” mint mark. However, due to die overuse and excessive polishing, some coins were struck without the mint mark, creating this rare variety.
Key Features
- Mint Mark: No mint mark (intended to have a D)
- Composition: 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc
- Design: Features Lincoln’s portrait on the obverse and wheat stalks on the reverse
Value
Because of its rarity, this penny commands high prices.
- Good condition: $500 to $1,000
- Fine to extremely fine condition: $1,500 to $5,000
- Uncirculated: $10,000 to $30,000 or more
How to Identify
- Confirm the date is 1922
- Look for a missing mint mark (some weak “D” varieties exist but are less valuable)
- Ensure the reverse design is strong, as weak reverse varieties are less valuable
1955 Double Die Lincoln Penny
The 1955 Double Die Lincoln Penny is one of the most famous and recognizable error coins.
Historical Background
A misalignment in the die used to strike the obverse caused a noticeable doubling of the date and inscriptions. This error was released into circulation before being detected, making it a prized collector’s item.
Key Features
- Mint Mark: None (Philadelphia)
- Composition: 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc
- Design: Features Lincoln’s portrait on the obverse and wheat stalks on the reverse
Value
Due to its dramatic doubling effect, this penny is in high demand.
- Circulated: $1,000 to $2,500
- Uncirculated: $5,000 to $25,000
- High-grade specimens: $50,000+
How to Identify
- Look for strong doubling on “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST”
- The date “1955” should have clear doubling
- Use a magnifying glass to inspect the details closely
1969-S Double Die Lincoln Penny
The 1969-S Double Die Lincoln Penny is another error coin that has become highly valuable.
Historical Background
Like the 1955 version, this coin features a striking double die error, but it is far rarer. For years, counterfeit versions circulated, making authentication crucial.
Key Features
- Mint Mark: S (San Francisco)
- Composition: 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc
- Design: Features Lincoln’s portrait on the obverse and wheat stalks on the reverse
Value
With only a few known examples, this penny commands high prices.
- Circulated: $10,000 to $20,000
- Uncirculated: $30,000 to $75,000+
How to Identify
- Look for strong doubling in “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST”
- The date “1969” should also show clear doubling
- Verify authenticity with a professional grading service
Could You Have One of These Rare Pennies?
Rare pennies could be hiding in your pocket change, coin jars, or old collections. Finding one of these valuable coins could be a life-changing discovery. If you think you have a rare penny, consider getting it authenticated by a professional coin grading service.
Whether it’s the historic 1909-S V.D.B. penny or the legendary 1955 Double Die, these small copper coins prove that a penny saved could be a penny earned—many times over.
English